ARESTIN® Antimicrobial Therapy

ARESTIN® antimicrobial therapy is a targeted treatment for periodontal disease that helps control bacteria within infected gum pockets. Used alongside scaling and root planing, ARESTIN delivers a locally applied antibiotic directly to areas where harmful bacteria may remain. This approach can reduce periodontal pocket depth, support gum healing, and help protect the teeth and their supporting structures.

What Is ARESTIN® Antimicrobial Therapy?

Periodontal disease is a chronic bacterial infection affecting the gums and supporting structures of the teeth. When left untreated, it can damage the bone and connective tissue, increasing the risk of tooth loss and other concerns that may compromise a patient’s overall oral health.

ARESTIN is a prescription antibiotic containing minocycline hydrochloride in the form of tiny microspheres. It is applied after a deep cleaning procedure known as scaling and root planing (SRP). Rather than being taken orally, the medication is placed directly inside infected periodontal pockets by trained dental professionals. This targeted application addresses bacteria at the site of the gum infection, helping treat an important root cause of periodontal disease.

The microspheres gradually release the antibiotic at the treatment site, helping eliminate bacteria that may be difficult to reach with dental instruments alone. When used in combination with scaling and root planing, ARESTIN may provide the added benefit of reducing inflammation and supporting a greater reduction in periodontal pocket depth.

ARESTIN is intended to complement professional periodontal care, not replace scaling and root planing or proper oral hygiene. Additionally, it may be used during periodontal maintenance appointments when certain gum pockets continue to show signs of infection.

Candidates for ARESTIN® Treatment

ARESTIN may be recommended for patients with adult periodontitis who have gum pockets that require additional treatment after scaling and root planing. It may be particularly beneficial when isolated areas continue to show increased pocket depth, bleeding, inflammation, or other signs of active periodontal infection. Each person will receive an individualized evaluation to determine whether ARESTIN or more options for periodontal care should be considered.

ARESTIN may not be appropriate for everyone. Patients should inform Dr. Gasper and the dental team about their medical history, allergies, pregnancy or nursing status, and current medications before treatment. ARESTIN should not be used by patients who are allergic to minocycline or other tetracycline-class antibiotics.

For complete important safety information, patients should review the manufacturer’s prescribing information and discuss potential risks with Dr. Gasper. Patients who experience signs of a serious allergic reaction, including swelling or difficulty breathing, should seek immediate medical attention. Please contact Gasper Periodontics & Implant Surgery with any questions about whether ARESTIN is appropriate for you.

The ARESTIN® Treatment Process

Before applying ARESTIN, plaque, tartar, and bacterial deposits are removed from beneath the gumline through scaling and root planing. Dr. Gasper then places the antibiotic microspheres directly into the affected periodontal pockets using a small applicator.

The procedure does not require incisions, sutures, needles, or anesthesia, and placement typically takes only a few minutes. Because the medication is delivered directly to the infected area, it can target bacteria within the periodontal pocket without requiring an oral antibiotic. Treatment may be completed at the same appointment as scaling and root planing or during a follow-up visit.

Recovery and Results From ARESTIN® Therapy

ARESTIN treatment involves little to no downtime, and patients can generally return to their normal routine immediately. Dr. Gasper will provide instructions regarding brushing, flossing, and eating after treatment. Patients should avoid touching the treated areas and follow all recommendations to help keep the medication in place.

As ARESTIN releases the antibiotic over time, it continues working within the periodontal pocket. When combined with scaling and root planing, consistent home care, and regular periodontal maintenance, treatment can help reduce pocket depth and improve gum health. Follow-up evaluations allow Dr. Gasper to monitor healing and determine whether additional periodontal care is needed.

Schedule an ARESTIN® Consultation

If you have persistent periodontal pockets or signs of gum disease despite routine dental care, ARESTIN antimicrobial therapy may provide additional support at the site of infection. Dr. Christina Gasper can evaluate your periodontal health and develop a personalized treatment plan to help control bacteria, preserve supporting tissue, and protect your natural teeth. Fill out the online contact form to schedule a consultation.